With the tragic memory of the slaying of the Oakland police officers still in our minds, it seems an appropriate opportunity to highlight an annual event that honors our local police and firefighters. In each of the past 44 years, the Peninsula Council of Lions Clubs has sponsored the Police & Firefighters Awards Banquet.

The latest event was held on April 3 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The event was attended by over 500 people including a County Supervisor, along with Council members, Police Chiefs, and Fire Chiefs from cities spanning the Peninsula from Daly City to Palo Alto. The event was held to honor 32 Police Officers and 16 Firefighters who have distinguished themselves in Service to the Community, Valor, and Heroism.

Foster City Firefighter Kojo Willians received the Fire Heroism award. While rescuing people from a sinking boat, he put his life in jeopardy as he assisted each member of the party from the sinking boat to a rescue boat.

Foster City Police Officers Michael McLaughlin and Michael Greene and Corporal Mark Lee received an award for Police Heroism. When an intoxicated driver drove their vehicle into the lagoon, these three officers jumped into the lagoon, and removed the driver from the vehicle and in all probability, saved the driver’s life.

Foster City Police Corporals William Sandri and Mark Lee were awarded the Area Wide Police Valor Award along with two San Mateo Police Officers. These officers were members of the Regional SWAT team that responded to the potential for a hostage situation in San Mateo. While rescuing two small children from the hostage situation, the officers were in very close proximity to the path of the bullets and their safety was in peril.

I have just highlighted the accomplishments of the five Foster City recipients and in no way is it intended to diminish the accomplishments of the 42 other recipients as they are deserving of similar accolades.

The Annual Police and Firefighters Awards Banquet is a special night to show appreciation for the men and women who deserve special recognition for their efforts. I was proud to be a part of this event and to show my support for the honorees and for all of the Police and Firefighters who work to keep each of us safe.